CONSUMER ALERT: Viral Video Promotes Fake Property Tax Form

Published on 04 August 2026

The Franklin County Auditor’s Office is warning older Franklin County homeowners about a viral YouTube video spreading false claims about a nonexistent federal property tax relief program.

The video claims that Congress passed a law providing significant property tax savings for older homeowners. It directs viewers to call their county auditor and request a “Senior Homeowner Tax Review Request” form “as mandated by federal law.” There is no such form, federal law or stimulus program.

The Franklin County Auditor’s Office has received an increase in calls and emails from residents asking for the form. Some residents have become frustrated after learning that the video’s claims are false.

“There is no recently passed federal legislation or federal form called the ‘Senior Homeowner Tax Review Request,’” said Franklin County Auditor Michael Stinziano. “We encourage residents to rely on official government sources and contact our office directly when they have questions about legitimate property tax relief programs.”

The video used artificial intelligence and made significantly misleading commentary to make its claims seem credible. The Auditor’s Office encourages residents to be cautious of online content promising large tax savings, government payments or debt elimination, particularly when the content does not direct viewers to an official government website.

Ohio does have legitimate property tax relief programs established under state law, including the Homestead Exemption. The program is available to qualifying homeowners, including certain Ohioans who are age 65 or older, homeowners who are permanently and totally disabled, qualifying disabled veterans and certain surviving spouses.

In addition, Ohio House Bill 479 recently authorized a one-time, state-funded property tax reduction for eligible Homestead Exemption recipients for 2027. The exact amount will be determined after county auditors certify the number of eligible recipients statewide. Estimates have placed the reduction at approximately $450 to $500 per recipient, with the credit expected to appear on first-half property tax bills in 2027.

Existing Homestead Exemption recipients do not need to complete a separate House Bill 479 application.

Franklin County homeowners can find official information about the Homestead Exemption, eligibility requirements and application forms at auditor.franklincountyohio.gov/homestead or by calling 614-525-HOME (4663).

Residents should not pay anyone for access to the supposed government forms or provide personal information through unofficial websites.